EAST COUNTY: More than half of Potrero's 509 voters have turned in ballots for a mail election to recall five members of the local planning group.

Today is the final day to cast a ballot. A drop-off box staffed by two county employees will be at the Potrero General Store on state Route 94 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., said Robert Pennici of the county registrar's office.

Ballots can also be left at the registrar's office, 5201 Ruffin Road, Suite I, in Kearny Mesa.

The question is whether to recall five members of the Potrero planning group who gave early approval for a law enforcement and military training camp proposed by Blackwater Worldwide. Opponents say the camp will bring noise and traffic to the rural community, and they disapprove of Blackwater's role as a contractor in Iraq.

Pennici said his office has received 269 of the 509 ballots sent to Potrero voters.

The registrar's office will begin counting ballots at 8 tonight, with final results expected tomorrow after all signatures are validated. –A.K.